ISLAMABAD (Khyber Mail): The Chinese Embassy commemorated the 72nd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan by hosting a reception titled “China-Pakistan Unbreakable Friendship and the Bright Future.” The event, centered around the theme of friendship and cooperation, saw the attendance of esteemed diplomats and officials from both nations.
H.E. Ms. Pang Chunxue, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, welcomed the guests and highlighted the deep historical roots, strong public support, and practical needs that underpin the China-Pakistan relationship. Ms. Pang emphasized China’s commitment to modernization and its role in providing new opportunities for countries like Pakistan. She acknowledged the shared goals of both nations in exploring development paths suitable to their national conditions and maintaining global peace and stability.
Ms. Pang also noted the significance of this year, marking the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). She praised the fruitful outcomes achieved through the joint efforts of both sides in areas such as industry, agriculture, IT, and disaster prevention, which have contributed significantly to Pakistan’s economic and social development, infrastructure enhancement, and regional connectivity. CPEC has become a symbol of China-Pakistan cooperation.
Highlighting the recent successful visit of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang to Pakistan, Ms. Pang expressed gratitude to diplomats from both countries for their tireless efforts and contributions. She affirmed China’s commitment to implementing the consensus reached by the leaders of China and Pakistan and further promoting the cause of friendship between the two nations.
Pakistan Foreign Secretary Dr. Asad Majeed Khan lauded the contributions of generations of diplomats from both countries in fostering the unbreakable friendship and cooperation between China and Pakistan. He noted the symbolic significance of the change in the Chinese Embassy compound, with its previous site now housing the Pakistan government’s Foreign Service Academy, while the new compound has become the largest Chinese Embassy abroad.
Dr. Majeed Khan expressed appreciation for China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, independence, financial stability, and infrastructure development. He acknowledged the prosperity and progress brought about by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, expressing deep gratitude for China’s assistance. He called for joint celebrations of the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative and the launch of CPEC, emphasizing the importance of a new generation of diplomats continuing to strengthen the China-Pakistan friendship.
Dr. Mazhar Javed, Director General of the Foreign Service Academy, emphasized the nurturing of China-Pakistan relations over the past 72 years. He highlighted the valuable opportunities for exchange and learning between the younger generation through the comprehensive cooperation between the two nations. Dr. Javed commended State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang’s engagement with Pakistani young diplomats during his visit and praised the reception for enhancing their understanding of the strong China-Pakistan relationship. He urged the young diplomats to continue fostering the traditional friendship and contribute to the further development of bilateral relations.
Before the reception, the guests enjoyed various activities, including viewing photographs showcasing the history of China-Pakistan friendship and the transformation of the Chinese Embassy compound. They also experienced a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and had the opportunity to make dumplings, fostering a warm and harmonious atmosphere. Former Pakistani ambassadors to China reminisced about their experiences in China, emphasizing the need to strengthen the iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan and elevate comprehensive and pragmatic cooperation to new heights. Pakistani young diplomats expressed gratitude for the warm and impressive reception, noting how it deepened their knowledge and understanding of China and the Communist Party of China (CPC), while strengthening friendships between the young diplomats of both nations.